Central Coast Home & Lifestyle Autumn 2021

Central Coast Retirement Lifest yle

to ensure you are getting the full range of antioxidants is to consume a variety of plant foods, such as vegetables, fruits, wholegrains, legumes, nuts, seeds and tea. Overeating puts a strain on the body's organs, muscles and joints, making us feel old before our time. We know that being overweight or obese increases the risk of a shorter life span and feeling less that our best, both physically and mentally. The key message for staying youthful and energetic is not to overeat! If you are worried about your mental health as you age and suffering with memory loss, then eat plenty of broccoli, cabbage, Asian greens, rocket, herbs and radishes. Vegetables from the cabbage family contain a special phytochemical group that maintain levels of an important brain neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is involved in the processes of learning and memory function. Just as muscles get flabby from sitting and doing nothing, so does the brain. The saying "use it or lose it" holds true for staying mentally sharp. Challenge your mind with crosswords and puzzles. Consume a diet rich in Folate (leafy greens and fortified breakfast cereals), B12 (milk and eggs). Wrinkles are one of the most obvious signs of ageing. As our skin matures it produces less elastin and collagen causing it to sag and become lined and wrinkled. By looking after your skin, wearing sunscreen, avoid smoking and staying active life with a healthy diet, you can preserve some of that youthful glow.

Before you rent or buy a mobility scooter, check in with your doctor or occupational therapist to verify it is the right choice for you. Assess how the scooter will fit into your present living conditions. Make sure you have enough room to store it in a safe undercover space and you can access it easily when you need it. Before heading out on your scooter, it is worth investing some time checking it over to confirm tyres are inflated, you have enough battery charge and lights are operational. Anyone using a mobility scooter is classified as a pedestrian in most parts of Australia. As such, you are required to follow the same road rules a pedestrian would. As you are classified as a pedestrian in NSW, you do not need a drivers license to use your scooter. Mobility Scooters vary in design, size, features and price. Check how well your mobility scooter would be able to handle curbs, hills, and other environmental conditions in your area. It is important to choose a device that is suitable to your weight and build. The team at Premier Mobility Centre will assist with your decision and will welcome you to their store or come to your home to do so. It is important to be certain that the features and controls of the scooter are designed so you can operate them safely & comfortably. We are happy to spend the time finding the perfect fit for you. Read the User Manual for the mobility scooter you are about to use. There is important information that you must be aware of for your safety and for There are no magical foods that turn back the clock, but good nutrition is important for looking and feeling your best as the years go by. Normal ageing is often not the main reason for many of the conditions that affect quality of life in older people - there is often a medical cause for 'feeling old'. Poor food choices and low fitness levels are major contributors to lifestyle related diseases such as cancer, diabetes, bone and joint ailments and heart disease. Our metabolisms create 'free radicals', Holding back the years

unstable, highly reactive substances that can damage cells that are major players in the ageing process. Smoking and poor diet increase our exposure to hazardous free radicals and also contribute to the development of chronic diseases. During our search for that magic age- delaying potion, we often neglect or ignore the most obvious remedy - food! Of course, one of the secrets to a long, healthy life begins with good genes, but healthy eating habits can help too. Antioxidants such as lycopene, carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols can help sweep away damaging free radicals. The best way

Mobility Scooter Tips - For your Safety

the efficient operation of your mobility device. A thorough yearly service will qualify that your scooter will not let you down. Repairs and maintenance are just as important as they are with a motor vehicle and will ensure your continued safety on your chosen ride. Take care of yourself It essential that you take basic steps to take care of yourself leading up to and while driving. This includes: Not drinking and driving, Make sure you are awake and alert enough to drive, Sticking to safe routes, Driving at walking speed, Not carrying heavy packages without a basket, Wearing appropriate clothing and mapping your route to include paths and avoid rough surfaces. Stick to the side of the road, facing oncoming traffic and make sure you’re visible by wearing bright clothes or a reflective vest and having working lights on your scooter. Take extra care at night! A lot of Scooter riders are unaware that breakdown and comprehensive insurance is available and affordable, just speak with your sales representative. Remember, you are a pedestrian, so do not drive with the traffic. It is always better to alter your route and stay safe, even if it is a slightly longer journey. If you have any questions regarding road safety for mobility scooters, do not hesitate to get in contact with your local council. For more information phone our friendly staff on 4333 7004

36 Home & Lifestyle Magazine | Autumn 2021